Located in Buxar, Bihar, near the Ganges River, the Simri Mai Temple is an important pilgrimage site devoted to a fierce form of Goddess Durga, worshipped here as Simri Mai, the guardian of the village. The temple sits by a small waterfall and pond, and it’s seen as a shakti peeth where the goddess resides with her power, bringing health and safety to her devotees.
History of Simri Mai Temple
Simri Mai Temple in Buxar is said to be very old, with stories going back hundreds of years. People believe the goddess appeared here to protect the land during hard times. Buxar itself has old Hindu connections, like the Battle of Buxar and sacred spots along the Ganges, so this area has always been holy. Locals say the temple grew around a self-made idol of Maa Kalratri, which appeared during plague or drought, and since then people come here for healing. The waterfall nearby adds to the peaceful and sacred feeling.
The temple sits on flat land near Simri town and you can reach it by road from Buxar easily. Long ago, it was just a simple thatched hut, but villagers rebuilt and improved it over the years, especially after 1947 when a local trust took charge. In the 1990s, they repaired it again, keeping the old rustic look but adding small shelters. Elders and saints always speak of Maa Simri’s powers, so people come here for protection and blessings. Even now, many women and families visit to pray.
Architecture of Simri Mai Temple
The temple has a simple village look, humble but carrying a strong divine feeling, made from local bricks and stones that blend into the Bihar countryside. The main sanctum, where Maa Simri Mai’s idol sits, is small and cozy, decorated with red sindoor, silver pieces, and fresh marigold flowers from nearby fields. A low roof with a plain kalasha tops it, like many local devi shrines, and the walls show painted motifs of Durga in her various forms and lotus designs, a little chipped by weather but still bright.
The courtyard is open, with a few stone steps leading to the nearby waterfall where devotees wash before prayers. Some stone pillars have rough carvings of trishuls and lions. The entrance is a plain arch with faded murals showing the goddess riding her tiger. Inside, small niches hold other matrikas, adding to the feeling of protection. The waterfall and small pond next to the temple make it special, with steps going down for dips.
Legends of Simri Mai Temple
The temple’s got stories that folks pass down. One big tale says during ancient times, when a demon or disease hit the Simri village, Maa Kalratri appeared in a dream to a local woman, revealing her idol by the waterfall and promising to protect anyone who prays true. The name Simri Mai means “mother of Simri,” for she saved the town from floods or foes. People believe offering here with faith brings cure from ills, safe births, or victory over troubles.
Another legend ties to the Ganges nearby, where the goddess is said to have cooled the waters for devotees during a hot summer curse. Locals talk of miracles, like eyes healing or evil spirits fleeing after visits. The waterfall’s believed to hold her purifying power, and some say bathing there seven times washes away sins and makes wishes real. Many feel the temple’s breeze carries Maa’s guarding energy, a spot of strength. On Ashtami, folks say her spirit grows stronger, chasing away darkness.
Rituals and Festivals
The temple has many stories told by locals. One popular tale says that long ago, when a demon or a disease struck Simri village, Maa Kalratri appeared in a dream to a local woman. She revealed her idol near the waterfall and promised to protect anyone who prays sincerely. The name Simri Mai means “Mother of Simri,” because she is believed to have saved the town from floods or enemies. People think that offering prayers here with faith can bring healing, safe childbirth, or relief from troubles.
Another story links to the nearby Ganges, where it is said the goddess cooled the waters during a harsh summer curse. Villagers speak of miracles, like eyes healing or evil spirits leaving, after visiting the temple.
How to Get There
Air: Gaya Airport is about 120 km away, with flights connecting to Delhi (around 1.5 hours) and Kolkata (around 1 hour). Taxis take approximately 3 hours to reach the temple.
Train: Buxar Junction is 18 km from the temple, with trains connecting to Patna (about 3 hours) and Varanasi (about 2 hours). Auto-rickshaws are available for local travel.
Road: Simri lies 18 km east of Buxar via NH-922. Buses run between Buxar and Dumraon. Auto-rickshaws operate within the block. Parking space is limited, and there is no parking available directly near the waterfall.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is cool, 15–25°C. Weekdays are quiet. Navratri is busy, with 2,000–10,000 visitors, so come early.
Nearby Attractions
Buxar Fort: 18 km away, historic ruins from the 1764 battle on Ganges banks.
Brahmeshwar Nath Temple: 20 km away, an ancient west-facing Shiva shrine.
Kameshwar Nath Temple and Ghat: 15 km away, Shiva temple with serene river views.
